First draft of researched argument
15% of quarter grade
due Wednesday, February 21st
bring three copies to class
Write a ten-to-twelve page argument in which you advance a claim. The guidelines outlined in two of the previous assignments (see Topic Proposal and Position Paper) pertain to this assignment. In essence, the goals of this project are fourfold: to advance a claim (purpose), locate your claim within a field (context), engage your readers (audience), and demonstrate your understanding of and opinion concerning an important, contemporary, controversial issue (persona).
With "Toulmin" in mind (ch. 8 in EAA), consider carefully which type of appeal is most appropriate for your argument. Stick with one: Also, with "Toulmin" in mind, use one of the following four categories as an organizational principle. Stick with one:Documentation: Part of your grade will depend on how well you integrate your sources into the argument (using MLA guidelines). Consequently, the essay you submit must include all in-text citations; work missing such citations will lose points. Attaching the works cited at this time will not be necessary (see Works Cited). The "Works Cited" will be due in two weeks. Evaluation: I will evaluate your paper with regard to not only the quality of your writing but also the effective and coherent structuring of the argument. Consistency concerning the type of appeal (see above) and the organizational principle (see above) you employ will figure in how your project will be graded. Audience: Because a peer-editing workshop will critique your first draft on February 21st, consider your audience as primarily consisting of your colleagues. For this reason, put your email address along with your name on the first page. Bring three copies. |
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